biostudies-literatureWang XNational Science Foundatione202203004https://www.ebi.ac.uk/biostudies/studies/S-EPMC9516845biostudies-literatureUnknown221(12)The mating of budding yeast depends on chemotropism, a fundamental cellular process. Haploid yeast cells of opposite mating type signal their positions to one another through mating pheromones. We have proposed a deterministic gradient sensing model that explains how these cells orient toward their mating partners. Using the cell-cycle determined default polarity site (DS), cells assemble a gradient tracking machine (GTM) composed of signaling, polarity, and trafficking proteins. After assembly, the GTM redistributes up the gradient, aligns with the pheromone source, and triggers polarized growth toward the partner. Since positive feedback mechanisms drive polarized growth at the DS, it is unclear how the GTM is released for tracking. What prevents the GTM from triggering polarized growth The Journal of cell biologyGradient tracking in mating yeast depends on Bud1 inactivation and actin-independent vesicle delivery.PMC95168451818067Pai CYStone DEWang XfalseGradient tracking in mating yeast depends on Bud1 inactivation and actin-independent vesicle delivery.The mating of budding yeast depends on chemotropism, a fundamental cellular process. Haploid yeast cells of opposite mating type signal their positions to one another through mating pheromones. We have proposed a deterministic gradient sensing model that explains how these cells orient toward their mating partners. Using the cell-cycle determined default polarity site (DS), cells assemble a gradient tracking machine (GTM) composed of signaling, polarity, and trafficking proteins. After assembly, the GTM redistributes up the gradient, aligns with the pheromone source, and triggers polarized growth toward the partner. Since positive feedback mechanisms drive polarized growth at the DS, it is unclear how the GTM is released for tracking. What prevents the GTM from triggering polarized growth 2022-01-01T00:00:00Z2022 Dec2026-03-31T10:54:53.496Z2025-04-05T11:20:50.02ZS-EPMC95168453615605810.1083/jcb.202203004